Peak Performance

UNDERGRADUATE SYMPOSIUM 2013

During the recent Shell Eco-Marathon in Houston, NAU’s gas-powered car—aptly named Peak
Performance—completed five successful runs around the track, each one clocking
in at higher mileage per gallon: 360, 436, 439, 479, and 507 miles per
gallon. According to the undergraduate
engineering students who went to the competition and reported their findings at
the Undergraduate Symposium 2013, they made improvements each time by adjusting
the engine and changing the driving style. The team finished 18 out of 31 participants
in the “prototype” category.

The team also met its four goals of

Achieving high fuel efficiency

Creating a hyper-light vehicle

Holding up to 250 pounds in weight for driver
and gear and

Withstanding moderate collisions without
injuring the driver.

NAU’s electric car, which was also entered in the competition,
successfully completed the technical inspection and one lap around the track.